Regal 2800 (2015-) (w/ 1 x 380-hp Volvo Penta V8)

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Regal 2800 Features (Regal) Regal FasTrac Hull Design (Regal)

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Regal 2800 (2015-) Test Video

OverviewTest Results

Text Size: A A ARegal knows that people accustomed to larger boats have come to expectmore amenities in the boats they buy, even if they are smaller boats. That’swhy it created the 2800. She’s designed to appeal to the yachtsman thatneeds to downsize, but does not want to compromise on quality andamenities. The 2800 has an expanded and convertible social area, as wellas big-boat performance. She’s also got the built-in economy of Regal’sFasTrac hull design, which the company says provides better fuelefficiency and faster speeds.

Key Features

In-mold gelcoat boot stripeBow walkthough doorsDouble-wide companion seat with flip-up bolster2 insulated built-in coolersFusion 700i marine stereoHand-wrapped steering wheelOptional PowerPlatformPop-up stainless ski towBimini top

Specifications

Regal 2800 (2015-) Specifications

Length Overall28' 8'' 8.74 m

Dry Weight6,700 lbs. 3,039 kg

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1900 (2014-)

1900 ESX (2015-)

2000 ESX (2015-)

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2500 (2014-)

27 FasDeck (2012-)

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Beam 9' 2.74 m

Tested Weight 7,563 lbs. 3,431 kg

Draft38''

0.97 mWeight Capacity N/A

Draft Up N/A Person Capacity N/A

Draft Down N/A Fuel Capacity104 gal.

394 L

Air Draft N/A Water Capacity11 gal.

42 L

Deadrise/Transom 21-deg. Length on Trailer N/A

Max Headroom open Height on Trailer N/A

Bridge Clearance N/A Trailer Weight N/A

Total Package Weight(Trailer,Boat & Engine)

N/A

Prices, features, designs, and equipment are subject to change. Please see your localdealer or visit the builder's website for the latest information available on this boatmodel.

Engine Options

Regal 2800 (2015-) Engine options

Std. Power Not Available

Tested Power 1 x 380-hp Volvo Penta V8

Opt. Power Not Available

Regal 2800 (2015-) Captain's Report

Mission Statement

According to Regal, the mission of the 2800 is to provide the best 28’ (8.53 m) bowrider on the marketwith no shortcuts taken anywhere. The theme that Regal was going for they describe as “day-yachting”.The customers looking to buy this boat have the ability and the means to buy much larger boats andtherefore are accustomed to the amenities, fit-and-finish of those larger boats, but need to scale downfor whatever reason to a smaller boat.

The Regal 2800 was one of the classiest boats we’ve tested in this size range, both inside and out.

Items that Clearly Appeal to Up-Market Customers. For example, the model we tested had a “power

30 Express (2016-)

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platform” that extends an underwater platform below the extended swim platform. This is great foreasing the entry and egress to and from the water. It is also something that everyone will enjoy whensitting half submerged on the platform on hot summer days.

Other Up-Scale Options. She’s got an option for a bow thruster. This is probably the best optionalfeature money can buy as it makes docking by anyone as easy as with a far more expensive joysticksystem. The helm seat electrically adjusts fore and aft with an option for up and down. We had arefrigerated cockpit drawer on our test boat along with coolers for each of the individual areas onboard.The large head is very well finished off with a vessel sink atop a solid surface counter.

Seating is all convertible so when rafted up, or lounging with the bow on the beach, there’s a hugecockpit seating area available with the ability to add two tables. Additionally, Regal wanted to take theupholstery level up a notch from anything the company has ever done. A lot of time was spent onwhere to put the colors, how many colors to use, what colors to use and even what threads to use inthe stitching.

Ergonomics plays a huge part in the design of the 2800. This can only be felt through the angle ofthe seating, foam density, foam thickness and general shape of the seats. There’s a pronounced levelof comfort that we just don’t usually see in boats of this size range. For example, the aft sections of theside seats are curved inwards. Regal calls this a “comfort curve” and it allows a person to fully andcomfortably sit in the corner of the seating group, thereby maximizing the use of space of the seatingarea as a whole.

Lastly, Regal Focused on a Very Stylized Boat. The discriminating buyer for the 2800 is not going tobuy just any boat. Looks are just as important as functionality. If the customer doesn’t like the exteriorlook of the boat, they’re never even going to bother to see the interior.

The extended swim platform also has an extension that continues forward and creates an appealingmatch to the color of the forward angled sport arch. A little more detail could have been paid to addingcolor bands to the topsides, but the result is still a class act.

The 2800 has a reverse transom and rounded quarters to give her a classy profile.

Major Features

• FasTrac Hull. No report on Regal’s sportboats would be complete without a mention of theFasTrac hull design. This is Regal’s version of the stepped hull. By drawing air in from the sides of thehull the friction between the hull surface and the water is broken resulting in an improved ride withbetter speed and less fuel burn.

• A Cooler for Every Area. The bow has a built-in self-draining cooler. The cockpit has dedicatedstorage for the included carry-on cooler. The transom has another built-in cooler. No need to move toanother area of the boat just to get a chilled beverage.

• Four Double-wide Reversible Seats. Both the forward and aft seats have flip backs to convertfrom forward facing to aft facing.

• Twin Aft Chaises. Both aft seats flip to become aft facing chaise lounges. A filler cushion creates

a sun pad.

• Standard Power Helm Seat. The helm seat is electrically adjustable fore and aft. An optional up-down adjustment is also available, and was a welcome addition on our test boat.

Performance

The Regal 2800 has an empty weight of 6,700 lbs. (3,039 kg). With 43 gallons (163 L) of fuel and threepeople onboard, we estimated our test weight at 7,563 lbs. (3,431 kg). Our test boat was powered by aVolvo Penta 380-hp V8 6.0L "small block" sterndrive.

This is a 50 mph boat and she delivers that speed with a 29.9 gph average fuel burn. Her mosteconomical cruise came in at 4000 rpm and 30.1 mph. That speed turned in a 13.5 mph fuel burnproviding a range of 171 miles and an endurance of over 5 hours and 40 minutes while still holdingback a 10% reserve.

Top speed during our test runs of the Regal 2800 was 50.1 mph.

Both that top end and cruise speed are fairly high for a boat of this size and weight. Obviously theFasTrac hull contributed to this fuel performance.

The engine is under the electrically actuated hatch at the stern. Note how the storage boxes under the aft seats lie to both

sides of the engine. This is a good -- and unusual -- use of space that would otherwise go to waste.

Although there are two batteries, the switch only has an on/off position. When switched on, only one battery draws

current for the systems. If it runs down then the “emergency” position puts both into parallel. In the “on” position, both

charge when the engine is running.

All deck and hatch drains lead into a "water chest" and out a thru-hull fitting. There’s only one to each side -- thus

eliminating several holes in the topsides.

Handling

FasTrac Hull

The handling characteristics of the 2800 have everything to do with the proprietary FasTrac hull. Themain feature of FasTrac is the full beam step that draws air in from the sides and disperses that airunder the hull. In this manner, the surface friction of the water is broken up and the result is morespeed with less fuel burn.

This is a representation of how Regal's FasTrac hull works. Air is sucked under the hull through sidevents thereby reducing surface friction.

Here we can see the step with the forward section curved to specifically enhance this particular model. Each model gets

an individual design.

Furthermore, each FasTrac model is specifically engineered to match the hull and power. A look acrossthe multiple platforms employing the FasTrac hull clearly shows how the geometry changes from onemodel to another.

In this turning shot we can clearly see the Gun Metal Ice Metallic gel work.

With her reversed chines and flared bottom she throws spray low and wide for a dry ride.

In turns, the 2800 comes around with a 10-degree bank.

With the 2800, she’s got the comfortable feel of a heavy boat and that translates into solidperformance on the water. She cuts through the wakes cleanly, and we noticed no tendency to poundinto them, rather than launching over them. Turns are sedate and equally comfortable with just a slight10-degree lean into each. She’s got a natural 5-degree bow high cruise attitude. She has minimal bowrise on acceleration and when taking power off she settles into the water slightly stern first.

Helm

The control station on the 2800 is artfully implemented with a soft touch dash in Mocha-brown tonesthat are themed throughout the boat. Titanium is offered as a second color option. The RegalVuedisplay is in the center and its touchscreen can be used to control the speed and stereo. There’s also aGPS map display and a digital readout of the engine systems.

Our test boat had the optional bow thruster installed ($2,580) but we had no trouble maneuvering herwithout it. What we did come to appreciate, especially our “vertically challenged” test captain [He is 5'8'' (1.7m). --Ed.], was the electrically adjustable helm seat. Standard is a fore and aft adjustment.Optional is the up and down adjustment.

Regal put a lot of thought into the design of the helm and it shows. Trim tabs are standard as is the tilt wheel. The Fusion

stereo is to the left and has a drop down faceplate to accommodate an iPod.

Features Inspection

Seating

As this is clearly a social boat, let’s start our look at the features with the seating amenities. Regal hasa continuing theme of creative use of space and here it is even more evident as the 2800 has a 9’ (2.74m) beam as opposed to the traditional 8’6" (2.59 m) beam. This allows an expanded gathering area inthe cockpit, which means more of an open feel to the space.

Note the minimal flare to the hull sides, which means that both the boat's footprint in the water and her interior space take

full advantage of the boat's 9' beam.

Cockpit

Seating wraps completely around the cockpit with both the forward and aft seats being convertiblethanks to flip seatbacks. Due to the wide 9’ (2.74 m) beam, 12 people can easily sit in comfort in this86” (2.18 m) wide cockpit with seats 44” (104 cm) apart. With the addition of a pair of optional tables, awelcoming cocktail or snack atmosphere is created. Storage is under both side seats with the starboardseat also containing a carry-on cooler, the first of three coolers onboard, one in each social area.

The optional pedestal table is far removed from the typical white “plastic fantastic” that we normally see, and instead

Regal provides a teak table highlighted with accent lines surrounding the inner perimeter.

The aft sections of the side seats also features Regal’s “comfort curve”. By curving in the seat, just abit, Regal has made a more comfortable use of the aft corners, which in turn maximizes the use ofspace even further.

Regal’s “comfort curve” allows the use of the corner seating to be somewhat more comfortable.

Hinged seats allow access to storage. In the cockpit there’s a dedicated spot for a 25-quart (23.7 L) carry-on cooler.

Both forward seats are 36” (91 cm) wide and include flip-up bolsters and padded armrests to thebulkhead sides. With the seatbacks flipped forward, both become aft facing seats allowing theoccupants to enjoy joining in on the social gathering in the cockpit.

Under the portside observer’s seat is an optional refrigerated drawer ($1,410).

The head is well laid out with a vessel sink over a solid surface counter. The standard toilet is a Porta-Potti. A pump-out

version is optional ($290) and includes a 12-gallon (45.4 L) holding tank.

The Power Tower is not only a classy piece of workmanship, it’s standard on the 2800. It provides anelevated towpoint 6’8” (2 m) above the deck. Blue LED courtesy lights are underneath. Both sides havelengthy grab rails. A Bimini top is included. Best of all, it collapses with the aid of an electric actuatorcontrolled from the helm. This allows the 2800 to be more easily accommodated in a dry-stack rackroom, and certainly lowers the profile so she can fit under a low bridge and still be driven.

The Power Tower is standard on the Regal 2800.

With the tower lowered, it is at the same level as the windshield frame and the helm is usable.

Bow

The bow has the traditional dual seats, but as Regal has carried the beam so far forward in the 2800 --and there is 9' (2.74 m) of it -- there’s much more room. Both seats have flip-down armrests. Anelongated grab rail is a bit easier for small hands to wrap around than the more basic rails with arounded cross section. Speakers and drink holders are in a recessed area at the sides so as not tointerfere with the back when sitting while facing the center of the boat. Padded bolsters wrap aroundfrom one side to the other.

The bow seating is seen here in the traditional configuration. There’s a full 32” (81 cm) from the seats to the top of the

caprail. The seats are 21” (53.3 cm) apart. The footwell is 21'' (53.3 cm) wide.

Fully forward Regal included a built-in, self-draining cooler.

The Bow Seating is Also Convertible. Removing a cushion from the starboard side allows for anindividual forward-facing seat that can be used while both feet are on the deck. A pedestal table canalso be relocated from the cockpit to the bow area for al fresco snacks. Storage remains accessibleunder both seats via hinged seat cushions. There is no option for a filler sun pad cushion.

With a cushion removed a chair-like seat is created.

Add a table to turn the area into a cocktail lounge or just a convenient place for snacks.

At the 23” (58.4 cm) wide walkthrough to the bow, Regal added a pull-out trash receptacle and a storage drawer.

Transom

The aft seats are also convertible and transition from forward facing cockpit seats to aft facing chaise

lounge seats at the transom. Both are double-wide and there are no latches to lift, and no pins to pull,in order to complete the conversion. This is just as it should be.

We can never figure out why so many manufacturers insist on equipping these aft convertible seatswith latches. If the boat were underway, no one would be in the aft facing seats so the seatbacks areflipped back. They’re not going to pop out of position. In the aft facing configuration, the boat shouldn’tbe underway anyway so again, no worry about popping out of position. High marks to Regal for seeingthis obvious characteristic and making the seats that much easier to convert.

Another built-in cooler is located at the transom. Another of the three onboard, making it the third one aboard.

Both of these aft seats have storage underneath, which is another rare commodity. Most simply gowith a low profile and rest the seats just above the engine underneath. Here Regal kept the low profileby designing the storage boxes to rest to either side of the engine.

Both aft seats also have storage underneath.

The walkthrough can be filled in with cushions that slide in on tracks. We found this system to beefficient at keeping the cushions in place while underway but a little difficult in getting them to fitproperly in the tracks. Once in place a large sun pad is created.

With the seatbacks flipped forward, two double wide aft facing seats are created, both with storage underneath. We like

the classic-looking center aisle.

The swim platform was treated with the same Flexiteek non-skid as the walkthrough ($2,070) and ithad a nice teak look to it while maintaining the soft feel. It also won’t get hot under bare feet whenexposed to the constant onslaught of the bright sun.

Courtesy lights are both high and low at the platform. There’s also a stereo remote and a pair ofstainless grilled speakers in addition to a transom remote. A switch to the port bulkhead activates anoptional “power platform” ($3,245) that creates an underwater step up to the swim platform. It’s also awelcome place to sit on in the water to catch some cool on a hot day.

The platform and walkthrough were both treated with the optional non-skid matting. Notice the stainless speaker grilles.

The stereo remote is just above the starboard drink holders. To the opposite side is the switch for the power platform.

With filler cushions installed a sun pad is created.

The power platform is a nice addition that both kids and adults are sure to appreciate.

Pricing

The Regal 2800 has a base price of $123,375 when powered with the optional Volvo Penta V8-380 ofour test boat. With all the options we saw, the price will jump to $151,155.

Observations

We think she’s a well thought-out boat with excellent handling and enough amenities to invite the mostdiscriminating yachting guests aboard. Her FasTrac hull is a definite bonus, as many boats in classdon’t have one.

We think there is a lot to be said for owning a large sportboat as they are designed for day boating --which is how most people use their vessels. In that regard, for many people they offer more “bang-for-the-buck” than larger boats.

Regal 2800 (2015-) Test Result Highlights

Top speed for the Regal 2800 (2015-) is 50.1 mph (80.6 kph), burning 29.9 gallons per hour(gph) or 113.17 liters per hour (lph).Best cruise for the Regal 2800 (2015-) is 30.1 mph (48.4 kph), and the boat gets 2.2 milesper gallon (mpg) or 0.94 kilometers per liter (kpl), giving the boat a cruising range of 209miles (336.35 kilometers).Tested power is 1 x 380-hp Volvo Penta V8.

For complete test results including fuel consumption, range and sound levels go to our Test Results section.

Standard and Optional Equipment

Regal 2800 (2015-) Standard and Optional Equipment

Marine Electronics

GPS/Chart

Systems

Battery Charger/Converter

CD Stereo

Head: Fixed

Trim Tabs

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Water Heater

Windlass

Galley

Refrigerator

Exterior Features

Carpet: Cockpit

Outlet: 12-Volt Acc

Swim Platform

Tower: Watersports

Transom Shower

Canvas

Bimini Top

Cockpit Cover

Full Canvas

Boats More Than 30 Feet

Bow Thruster

= Standard = Optional

Regal 2800 (2015-) Warranty

Regal 2800 (2015-) Warranty Information

Warranties change from time to time. While BoatTEST.com has tried to ensure themost up-to-date warranty offered by each builder, it does not guarantee the accuraciesof the information presented below. Please check with the boat builder or your localdealer before you buy any boat.

Full Warranty Information on this brand coming soon!

Regal 2800 (2015-) Price

Regal 2800 (2015-) Price

Pricing Range $113,640.00

Prices, features, designs, and equipment are subject to change. Please see your localdealer or visit the builder's website for the latest information available on this boatmodel.

Test Results (Printer Friendly Page)Test Power: 1 x 380-hp Volvo Penta V8

Range

RPM MPH KnotsTotalGPH

MPG NMPGStat.Mile

NM KM KPH LPH KPL dBA

600 3.1 2.7 0.9 3.4 3.0 322 280.3 518 5.00 3.41 1.45 58

1000 4.9 4.3 1.6 3.2 2.7 296 257.3 476 7.90 6.06 1.36 70

1500 6.9 6.0 2.4 2.9 2.6 275 239.0 443 11.10 9.08 1.23 66

2000 8.3 7.2 3.9 2.1 1.9 201 174.4 323 13.40 14.76 0.89 73

2500 9.9 8.6 7.0 1.4 1.2 132 114.5 212 15.90 26.50 0.60 74

3000 14.1 12.3 9.8 1.4 1.3 135 117.1 217 22.70 37.10 0.60 80

3500 23.3 20.2 11.7 2.0 1.7 187 162.4 301 37.50 44.29 0.85 83

4000 30.1 26.2 13.5 2.2 1.9 209 181.5 336 48.40 51.10 0.94 83

4500 35.9 31.2 16.7 2.1 1.9 201 175.0 323 57.80 63.22 0.89 84

5000 41.2 35.8 20.8 2.0 1.7 185 161.0 298 66.30 78.74 0.85 85

5500 45.9 39.9 26.9 1.7 1.5 160 139.1 257 73.90 101.83 0.72 87

5950 50.1 43.6 29.9 1.7 1.5 157 136.6 253 80.60 113.18 0.72 92

All fuel consumption numbers are the total for all engines in the boat. Speeds are measured withStalker ProSports radar gun or GPS. Fuel consumption (gallons per hour) measured with Floscandigital fuel-flow meter or by on-board factory-installed diagnostic instruments. Range is based on90% of published fuel capacity. Sound levels determined using Radio Shack digital decibel meter onA scale. 68 dBA is the level of normal conversation.

Performance Chart

Test ConditionsTest Power: 1 x 380-hp Volvo Penta V8

Time To Plane 4.3 sec.

0 to 30 9.9 sec.

Test Power 1 x 380-hp Volvo Penta V8

Transmission N/A

Ratio 2.32:1

Props FH-6

Load 3 persons, 41/100 fuel, no water, 50 lbs. of gear

Climate 88 deg., 72 humid.; wind: 0-5 mph; seas: calm

Elevation 17

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